Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is chasing Reading defender Alex Pearce.

The Daily Star says Pearce has moved a step closer to joining Liverpool after rejecting the offer of a new contract at Reading.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is an admirer of Pearce, 24, from his brief stint in charge at the Madejski Stadium.

Rodgers sees the Republic of Ireland international as a replacement for the retiring Jamie Carragher.

Pearce informed Reading he would not be signing a new deal before their relegation was confirmed in Sunday's 0-0 draw at home to QPR.